Cincinnati African American Events and Things to Do in 2026

What’s happening in Black Cincinnati in 2026 & 2027

Cincinnati African American Events this year.

Hip-hop, R&B, soul, Jazz, reggae, gospel, old school, and symphony live-music concerts happening in Cincinnati in 2026 & 2027

Black composers, plays, museum exhibits, comedy shows, concert series, operas, dance recitals, local music, and festivals in Cincinnati.

Black Cincinnatians can routinely and affordably enjoy the performing arts, fine arts, musicians, entertainers, comedians, program initiatives, and more. Arts and entertainment at Cincinnati African American Events can help improve physical and mental health.

Text VOBC to 513-966-3328 to receive an updated weekly calendar of Black events in Cincinnati!

See what’s happening in Black Cincinnati this week!

Feel free to submit an event to be considered in this article. All Cincinnati African American Events listed are as current as the publication date. Readers are encouraged to verify the information before taking action.

2026 Cincinnati African American Events

Demola Concert

October 2, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Known for his genre‑bending performances and global fanbase, Demola brings a vibrant energy that resonates with audiences of all ages.

Mutual Dance Theatre Presents South Chicago Dance Theatre

October 2 & 3
Aronoff Center for the Arts (Downtown)
The highly buzzed-about South Chicago Dance Theatre makes its Cincinnati debut, presented by Mutual Dance Theatre’s Jefferson James Contemporary Dance Theater Series! Led by Artistic Director Kia S. Smith, whose rise has been described as “meteoric,” South Chicago Dance Theatre landed a spot on Dance Magazine’s national “must-see” list and has been called “the next big thing” by the Chicago Tribune.

CSO + Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestral Festival

October 2 – 4
Music Hall (OTR)
Featuring thrilling performances with the combined forces of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, violinist Nicola Benedetti, and the CSO, this festival highlights new works and fresh takes on orchestral classics, while showcasing the multiple Grammy-winning JLCO.

Harvest Festival | Forest Park

October 3, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Central Park (Forest Park)
This family-friendly event offers an afternoon full of seasonal fun, including crafts, games, a petting zoo, kids’ train rides, food trucks, community vendors, and plenty of candy and treats.

Cincinnati Art Week

October 3 – 10
Multiple Venues in Over-the-Rhine
Brings exhibitions, pop-up galleries, social gatherings, and special programming to Over-the-Rhine. Designed by artists, the week connects residents and visitors with exhibitions, conversations, creative experiences, public programming and the people shaping Cincinnati’s cultural landscape.

Nina Simone Piano Competition

October 7, 6 p.m.
Music Hall (OTR)
Named in honor of the legendary Nina Simone — an artist whose extraordinary musicianship transcended genres and challenged the boundaries of classical music — the Competition provides a highly visible platform for emerging artists to share their gifts, gain professional experience and open doors to new opportunities.

CeCe Winans with Charity Gayle, Red Worship, & Terrian

October 8, 7 p.m.
Heritage Bank Center (Downtown)
Winans is excited to bring along some of the biggest worship leaders for an evening designed to be unlike anything audiences have experienced before.

Tab Benoit Blues Concert

October 9, 8 p.m.
Taft Theatre (Downtown)
A four-time Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, and guitarist who, for more than thirty years, has built a remarkable career on the foundation of his gritty and soulful Delta swamp blues.

Fades or Braids Gender Reveal & Community Shower

October 10, 1 p.m.
United Way (Walnut Hills)
Designed specifically for expecting mothers, the annual community shower provides an opportunity to connect with local resources, learn about healthy pregnancy and infant care practices, and prepare for the arrival of a new baby.

Karyn White R&B Concert

October 10, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Known for hits like “Superwoman” and “Secret Rendezvous,” White brings her powerhouse vocals and timeless style. Fans can look forward to a soulful, high-energy performance that showcases why she remains one of the defining voices of ’90s R&B.

First Ladies for Health Family Health Day

October 11
Multiple Venues
Featuring health screenings, flu shots for adults and children, food and giveaways, raffle prizes, gift cards and more at six convenient locations.

“Equal to Any in the City:” Ball & Thomas Photographs 1840s – 1870s Exhibit

Through October 14
Cincinnati Museum Center (Queensgate)
Experience American history through the lens of one of the 19th century’s greatest photographers. James Presley Ball, a free man of color, used his incredible skill to transcend racial barriers and establish himself as one of the most sought-after photographers in the country.

Panda Fest

October 16 – 18
Smale Riverfront Park (The Banks)
Expected to feature more than 90 food vendors serving 200+ Asian street food offerings, 30+ merchandise vendors, traditional and contemporary cultural performances, interactive activities and Panda Fest’s signature panda-themed experiences.

Songs of Destiny Symphony

October 17 & 18
Music Hall (OTR)
From myth to fire to consolation, this program traces a journey through passion, virtuosity, and reflection.

BOOP! The Musical Broadway

October 20 – 25
Aronoff Center for the Arts (Downtown)
For almost a century, the Betty Boop® character has won hearts and inspired fans around the world with her trademark looks, voice, and style. Now, in BOOP!® The Musical, Betty’s dream of an ordinary day off from super-celebrity in her black-and-white world leads to an adventure of color, music, and love in New York City.

Emmaline: The Great American Songbook Reimagined Jazz Concert

October 22, 8 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
With lush vocals, timeless melodies, and Emmaline’s modern-retro charm, this will be an elegant evening of romance, nostalgia, and live music made for old souls and modern hearts alike.

Psycho in Concert Symphony

October 27, 7:30 p.m.
Music Hall (OTR)
Alfred Hitchcock’s legendary thriller Psycho comes alive on the big screen as its spine-tingling score is performed live-to-film by the Cincinnati Pops.

BLKBOK Classical Concert

October 30, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
An evening that blends classical technique with the emotional storytelling of modern piano composition.

Gil Shaham Plays Tchaikovsky Symphony

October 30 & 31
Music Hall (OTR)
Conductor Kwamé Ryan returns for a program of passion, virtuosity, and expansive Romantic expression.

Dear Future Us: An Afternoon of Belonging & Possibility with Dr. Shawn Ginwright

November 5, 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
The Transept (OTR)
Interact for Health invites guests to an afternoon with Dr. Ginwright, author of The Four Pivots, for a discussion on a systems-level approach to building a healthier, more connected future, and the pivots we can make together to make this vision a reality.

Layers of the Unknown

November 6, 7 p.m.
Cincinnati Museum Center (West End)
An evening of light bites from local restaurants, creative cocktails, explosive programming, and exclusive access to Cincinnati Museum Center’s world-class exhibits awaits.

Witness to the Journey: Matt Herron and the Deep South,1965 Exhibit

Through November 8
Freedom Center (The Banks)
A compelling selection of 28 black-and-white photographs by renowned civil rights photographer Matt Herron. This exhibition documents the historic Selma to Montgomery March, a pivotal moment in American history that directly led to the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

JODECI R&B Concert

November 10, 8 p.m.
Andrew J Brady Music Center (The Banks)
Celebrating 35 years of their 3x platinum, 1991 debut album, Forever My Lady, JODECI is one of the most influential R&B groups of all time.

Fifth Third Leadership Symposium

November 12, 8 a.m. – Noon
Music Hall (OTR)
Explore the theme, The Science of Inclusive Leadership. Featuring keynote speaker Dr. Janet Ahn, presenting: “The Leadership Playbook is Broken: What Does it Take to Lead?”.

Gerald Albright Jazz Concert

November 13, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
The GRAMMY‑nominated musician will bring his signature blend of smooth jazz, funk, and soulful improvisation to the intimate Cincinnati venue.

Louis Langrée Conducts Ravel Symphony

November 13 & 14
Music Hall (OTR)
The return of Music Director Laureate Louis Langrée brings us a focus on Ravel’s music, showing us the different styles in which Ravel composed throughout his life.

The Manhattans featuring Gerald Alston R&B Concert

November 14, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Known for timeless hits like “Kiss and Say Goodbye,” “Shining Star,” and “There’s No Me Without You,” the group continues to captivate audiences with their smooth harmonies and soulful sound.

An Evening with Kenny G Jazz Concert

November 15, 7 p.m.
Taft Theatre (Downtown)
Known for iconic hits such as Songbird, Forever in Love, and Silhouette, Kenny G has captivated audiences worldwide throughout a career spanning more than four decades.

GCS ft. Eric Gales, Dennis Chambers & Billy Sheehan Concert

November 15, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
GCS brings together three of the most electrifying musicians in modern music: two time Grammy nominated guitarist and vocalist Eric Gales, Modern Drummer Hall of Fame drummer Dennis Chambers, and five time Best Rock Bass Player Billy Sheehan.

The Renaissance Orchestra

November 19, 8 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
A dynamic live music collective redefining the orchestra experience by blending hip-hop, R&B, soul, and live instrumentation into high-energy, immersive performances.

Rahsaan Paterson R&B Concert

November 20, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Known for his rich sound and dynamic stage presence, Patterson brings more than three decades of musical artistry to Cincinnati.

Strauss Spectacular Symphony

November 21 & 22
Music Hall (OTR)
Conductor Phillipe Jordan, in his highly-anticipated CSO debut, leads a Strauss spectacular for the senses.

Marion Meadows Jazz Concert

November 27, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Known for his soulful melodies, contemporary jazz style, and chart-topping hits, Meadows delivers a captivating live performance that appeals to both longtime jazz enthusiasts and new listeners alike.

Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol In Concert Live to Film Symphony

November 28 & 29
Music Hall (OTR)
The Cincinnati Pops presents Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol in concert, featuring the complete film with the score performed live-to-picture!

Mindi Abair’s I Can’t Wait For Christmas Jazz Concert

December 4, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Joined by five exciting solo artists, Mindi delivers Christmas classics, fresh original songs, and heartfelt moments that will make you laugh, tear up, and leave with your heart full of the Christmas spirit.

Conrad Tao, Mozart & Prokofiev Symphony

December 4 & 5
Music Hall (OTR)
Gemma New’s magnetic artistry guides the CSO in a century-spanning celebration of musical imagination.

Hot Chocolate: An African American Nutcracker

December 4 & 5
Aronoff Center for the Arts (Downtown)
A fresh production filled with breathtaking dance, unforgettable music, dazzling visuals, and the warmth of family, culture, and community. Inspired by the timeless magic of The Nutcracker, Hot Chocolate reimagines the classic through the richness of the African American experience, blending ballet with contemporary, jazz, modern, hip-hop, African diasporic movement, and powerful storytelling.

Holiday Pops Symphony

December 11 – 13
Music Hall (OTR)
Featuring talented choirs and dancers from around our city, plus special guests and a few surprises along the way, this is the Cincinnati Pops concert that captures all the wonder, warmth, and togetherness of the holidays. 

Rescheduled: The Pharcyde Rap Concert

December 18, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Their shows blend sharp lyricism, off‑kilter humor, and the laid‑back West Coast vibe that made them cult favorites.

NYE: Dancing in the Street: Music of Motown Symphony

December 31, 8 p.m.
Music Hall (OTR)
On New Year’s Eve, the Cincinnati Pops becomes a soul-powered time machine and a living jukebox of some of Motown’s greatest hits. From the very first downbeat, the air crackles with that unmistakable Detroit groove — brassy riffs, velvet harmonies, and basslines so smooth they practically dance on their own.

2027 Cincinnati African American Events

Hook in Concert Symphony

January 2 & 3
Music Hall (OTR)
Steven Spielberg’s beloved 1991 classic Hook comes to life on stage as the Pops performs John Williams’ iconic score live-to-picture as the full film plays on the big screen above the Orchestra.

Cristi Conducts Brahms Symphony No. 3 Symphony

January 8 & 9
Music Hall (OTR)
A chance discovery led to the revival of Florence Price’s music, including her Ethiopia’s Shadow in America, a full-bodied orchestral work which depicts the plight of Africans, from enslavement to resignation, faith, and adaptation.

Come As You Are Symphony

January 15 & 16
Music Hall (OTR)
In a celebration of Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, we tell the story of the American cultural tapestry through love, spirituality, innovation and diversity.

Najee Jazz Concert

January 16, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Renowned for his dynamic performances and signature blend of jazz, R&B, and soul, Najee has captivated audiences worldwide for decades.

Don Quixote & Enescu Symphony No. 3 Symphony

January 22 & 23
Music Hall (OTR)
Richard Strauss’ blends motifs depicting humor and heroism to reflect Don Quixote’s quixotic adventures, brought vividly to life by Alisa Weilerstein. CSO’s own Christian Colberg joins as the steadfast sidekick, helping to tell this larger-than-life story.

A.R. Rahman Symphony

January 26 & 27
Music Hall (OTR)
A Grammy and two-time academy award winner, Rahman is one of the world’s most prolific music composers and the musical genius behind the soul-stirring music of Slumdog Millionaire.

Jose James Sings Sinatra with the Blue Wisp Big Band

January 27, 8 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
The celebrated jazz vocalist explores the legacy of one of the greatest American voices of all time.

Stravinsky X Kendrick Lamar Symphony

January 29 & 30
Music Hall (OTR)
A daring fusion of Stravinsky’s Petrushka and Kendrick Lamar’s Pulitzer Prize–winning DAMN., two works linked by their “show-within-a-show” format and their protagonists’ struggles with identity and reality.

“The African Company Presents Richard III” Play

January 29 – February 14
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company (OTR)
Tells the story of an all-Black theatre troupe in 1821 determined to stage Shakespeare’s tragedy on their own terms. As their bold production takes shape, a rival white theatre mounts its own Richard III just blocks away, threatening to undermine, overshadow, and outmaneuver them. What follows is a charged battle of artistry, ego, and survival, where the stage becomes a proving ground and performance itself becomes an act of defiance.

Tchaikovsky & Bruckner: Epic Romance - 1

Tchaikovsky & Bruckner: Epic Romance Symphony

February 5 & 6
Music Hall (OTR)
Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet, aptly described by its composer as a fantasy, offers some of the most unforgettable love themes ever written.

Arrested Development Rap Concert

February 6, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Known for hits like “Tennessee” and “People Everyday,” the group blends socially conscious lyrics with infectious rhythms that continue to resonate with audiences around the world.

Marcus Miller Jazz Concert

February 25, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Renowned for his virtuosic playing, genre-blending style, and collaborations with icons, Miller delivers a dynamic live performance that showcases the very best of jazz, funk, and soul.

Beethoven & Berio Symphony

February 27 & 28
Music Hall (OTR)
This time-bending journey weaves together past and present through three generations of musical perspectives.

Extraordinary Women Symphony

March 5 & 6
Music Hall (OTR)
This program celebrates the enduring impact of female composers, from 19th-century pioneers to a trailblazer of today.

Bach St. Matthew Passion

March 13 & 14
Music Hall (OTR)
From the opening chorus to the final chorale, Bach weaves a tapestry of human sorrow, divine grace and ultimate redemption.

Billy Joel Songbook with Tony DeSare

March 19 – 21
Music Hall (OTR)
Tony DeSare lends his signature vocals and dynamic piano playing to a symphonic celebration of the Piano Man’s most iconic rock hits. Billy Joel Songbook with Tony DeSare will be brought to life under the baton of acclaimed Black conductor Damon Gupton.

The Uninhabited Island

April 2 & 3
Music Hall (OTR)
From spirited folk energy to romantic elegance, Music Director Laureate Louis Langrée reveals his “desert-island” favorites.

Mozart & Prokofiev

April 10 & 11
Music Hall (OTR)
It’s rare that two such in-demand artists make their CSO debuts on the same program, one that takes the listener on a journey from spark, to intimacy, to ultimate triumph.

Classical Roots

April 17, 7:30 p.m.
Music Hall (OTR)
For more than two decades, Classical Roots has stood as a beloved Cincinnati tradition, honoring the powerful legacy and enduring influence of African American music.

Rachmaninoff Symphonic Dances

April 23 & 24
Music Hall (OTR)
Written within a few years of one another and from three distinct points of view, these works illuminate contrasting inner worlds.

American Originals: Bluegrass Summit

April 30 – May 2
Music Hall (OTR)
From tender ballads to barn-burning breakdowns, experience the raw virtuosity and close-harmony storytelling of bluegrass elevated by the rich, full sound of the Pops.

The Wailers Reggae Concert

May 1, 8 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
Carrying forward the groundbreaking sound that helped bring reggae to audiences around the world, The Wailers continue to celebrate the timeless music and message of Bob Marley through powerful live performances.

May the Fourth: The Music of Star Wars

May 4, 7:30 p.m.
Music Hall (OTR)
From the shimmering mystique of the “Force Theme” to the heart-pounding intensity of the “Imperial March”, the Pops will transport you to a galaxy far, far away, bringing every interstellar battle and tender moment of hope vividly to life. 

Cristi Conducts Mahler Symphony No. 9

May 8 & 9
Music Hall (Downtown)
Mahler’s final completed symphony is a farewell to life. His vulnerability, felt throughout the entire work, gives way to the humor and tumult of the earthly experiences Mahler knew, especially in his youth.

Ray Chen, Korngold & Shostakovich

May 14 & 15
Music Hall (Downtown)
Each of these three composers, though it may not be evident at first, made significant contributions to diverse forms of musical entertainment.

John Lewis: Good Trouble Opera

June 18 & 20
Music Hall (Downtown)
Librettist Diana Solomon-Glover and composer Maria Thompson Corley weave together the heartwarming, heroic story of a boy from humble beginnings, armored only in his belief in “The Beloved Community,” who put his life on the line to secure the right to vote for all Americans.

Cincinnatians can enjoy Cincinnati African American Events nearly every night of the week. Visit our weekly list of things to do to see which arts centers, concert halls, auditoriums, and venues offer chamber, classical, philharmonic, orchestral, choral, folk, R&B, hip-hop, soul, or gospel music.

Cincinnati is also fortunate to have nationally known artists display their talents in the Queen City music scene. Touring acclaimed African American artists, artistic directors, singers, music directors, and performers routinely visit.

When purchasing tickets for Cincinnati African American Events, ask the box office about exclusive deals, discount options, community performances, dress rehearsals, recitals, or same-day options. Some events will sell out quickly, so buy tickets while you can.

The Voice of Black Cincinnati is a media company designed to educate, recognize, and create opportunities for African Americans. Want to find local news, events, job postings, scholarships, and a database of local Black-owned businesses? Visit our homepage, explore other articles, subscribe to our newsletter, like our Facebook page, join our Facebook group, and text VOBC to 513-966-3328.

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